The soft clinking of silverware and the gentle hum of conversation fills the luxurious atmosphere of The Arcadia Lounge, a high-end café located at the top of one of the tallest skyscrapers in the city. The windows offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the skyline, with the sun casting a golden hue over the pristine city below.
Seated at a secluded table, Shiro Arcadia leans back in his chair, casually sipping an espresso. His aura of calm confidence fills the room. Across from him sits Reana Fenir, a woman of elegance and precision, her sharp eyes betraying the calculating mind behind them. The faint aroma of coffee mingles with the air as their conversation begins.
Shiro opens with a smile. "Reana, I've been meaning to discuss something with you. Arcadia Industries has been doing quite well, but I can't help but notice the rise of Hellery Industries in recent months. Their breakthroughs in medical production have been... explosive."
Reana raises an eyebrow, taking a sip of her cappuccino before responding. "Explosive, indeed. You're not the only one who's noticed." She sets the cup down, eyes narrowing slightly. "It's not every day that a company like Hellery suddenly becomes a key player in the medical sector, especially with the advancements they've made in conjurer-related healthcare."
Shiro grins, clearly amused. "And that's exactly what I want to talk about. They're playing in the field I helped create, but I'm not worried. If anything, I'm curious. I've always liked a good challenge."
Reana nods, her expression shifting slightly as she leans forward. "The way I see it, Hellery's rise isn't just coincidental. There's a force behind it—an outside player pulling strings, funding research, and pushing their success. You've seen the numbers; they've skyrocketed almost overnight."
Shiro's gaze sharpens, but his smile never falters. "And I take it you're implying I should be concerned?"
Reana's lips curl into a small, knowing smile. "I'm saying you should keep an eye on them. Hellery's business moves are aggressive, and if they keep pushing like this, it won't be long before they start treading into your territory. Medical production is only the beginning. They could expand into... areas that would directly conflict with Arcadia Industries."
Shiro chuckles, taking another sip of his espresso. "Reana, I appreciate the advice. But you should know by now—I don't consider anyone a threat. Hellery is doing well, but remember... they're playing by my rules."
Reana remains silent for a moment, studying him. The soft sound of a string quartet playing in the background fills the air as they both take in the gravity of the conversation. Shiro's eyes gleam with that same subtle arrogance, a man who's used to being untouchable.
Shiro changes the subject slightly, leaning back in his chair. "By the way, I don't think we've had a proper introduction before today. I've always known you as 'Miss Fenir,' but I feel like we should be on a first-name basis by now, don't you think? After all, you're an important part of this little game we're playing."
Reana's expression softens, though she's still clearly on guard. "Reana. But I assume you already knew that, Shiro."
He smirks. "Of course I did, but hearing you say it feels more... official."
They share a brief moment of understanding, both aware that their "official" business is just a thin layer over the more significant machinations happening behind the scenes. The two titans of industry sit in the perfect calm of a luxury café, discussing medical breakthroughs, corporate power struggles, and potential threats—yet neither reveals their full hand.
As the conversation comes to a natural pause, Reana looks out the window, admiring the city below. "You're confident," she says quietly. "Almost too confident. But maybe that's what makes you so dangerous."
Shiro's eyes remain fixed on her, his smile widening just slightly. "Dangerous? That's an interesting way to put it."
Reana turns back to face him, her gaze steely. "Just don't underestimate Hellery. They're playing a long game, Shiro. And in my experience, it's the players you don't see coming that pose the greatest threat."
Shiro tilts his head, clearly enjoying the back-and-forth. "Noted. But I'll tell you this, Reana—I don't lose. Whether it's in business, in life, or in the little games we play. Hellery can rise all they want. They're still just pieces on the board, and I'm the one making the moves."
Reana smirks, finishing her drink. "We'll see about that."
As they wrap up their meeting, Shiro signals the waiter for the check, and they both rise from the table. The tension between them has lessened slightly, but the game of power continues, each of them silently plotting their next moves.
"Until next time, Reana," Shiro says with a slight nod as they exit the café.
"Until next time," she replies, her mind already racing with possibilities.